Pittsburgh's 'Little Italy' Is A Vibrant Cultural Hub Filled With Festivals, Food, And Historic Charm

Pittsburgh is widely known as the "Steel City," and the town's claim to fame centers on its rich industrial history in glass and steel — as the name suggests — but also its iconic sports teams and an artsy vibe highlighted by the Andy Warhol Museum. Nonetheless, each big city seems to have its own hidden, underrated districts that turn out to be a pleasant discovery. Besides Pittsburgh's trendiest neighborhoods with hip cafes, funky shops, and quirky charm, the town is home to the "Little Italy" neighborhood, brimming with festivals, a rich food scene, and historic charm. If you think only New York City hosts the real Little Italy, wait to visit Bloomfield.

Located near the city center, Bloomfield was first established by German and English immigrants, calling the district Laveta, before it became Bloomfield in the 1860s. Despite the burgeoning steel economy, Bloomfield was founded in a strategic location between manufactories and mills, attracting the attention of many Italian immigrants in need of work and a sustainable way of living. Today, Pittsburgh's district keeps alive the old traditions that have brought a thriving community together over the years. While the vibrant hub promotes cultural festivals and events, the Italian American Program preserves the memories and legacy of those who took a leap of faith and gave their lives a chance, collecting more than 400 personal narratives.

"Everybody's Italian this weekend," said event producer Sal Richetti about Pittsburgh's Little Italy Days. The four-day festival has reached its 25th anniversary and is still going strong. The event takes place in August, when every year more than 100 vendors gather to delight visitors with mouthwatering, traditionally made Italian dishes that make you want to book a flight to one of the most popular European countries. From delicious lasagna and rich cannoli to savory meatballs and refreshing Aperol spritz, you won't leave with an empty stomach. Live music and bocce games add a sense of camaraderie and inclusion.

If you missed this annual celebration, worries will vanish as you can sink your teeth into these tasty meals in some of the restaurants lining Liberty Avenue. Angelo's Pizzeria is a staple in the neighborhood. Established in 1976, the eatery serves homemade pizzas lovingly topped with a juicy tomato sauce and garnished with fresh ingredients. Built in 1941, the Pleasure Bar & Restaurant is a family-owned business serving Italy-inspired dishes and was ranked the second-best Italian restaurant in town in 2012. Located in Shadyside, Girasole brings positive, warm vibes — as the name translates to "sunflower" in English — and offers Italian wines and dishes with a contemporary twist, all served in a rustic ambiance.

Bloomfield carries an urban vibe mixed with Italian heritage, as you walk past window shops showing freshly handcrafted pasta. From grocery shops like Linea Verde Green Market to local stores, such as Bloomfield Groceria, selling Italian scratch-made delights, Little Italy has its own unique charm.